BBA70 of borrelia burgdorferi is a novel plasminogen-binding protein

Abstract

Background: Recruitment of plasminogen is important for efficient dissemination of Borrelia burgdorferi. Results: BBA70 of B. burgdorferi binds plasminogen, and following activation, bound plasmin can cleave fibrinogen and inactivate the key complement components C3b and C5. Conclusion: BBA70 is a potent plasminogen-binding protein. Significance: Investigation suggests that binding of plasminogen may aid in pathogen dissemination and inhibit bacteriolytic effects of the host complement system. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.